National Assembly Shouldn't fix own Salaries - Obasanjo
Last update: April 26, 2026
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Obasanjo Slams lawmakers over pay, cites constitution...
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticised members of the National Assembly of Nigeria over their involvement in determining their own salaries, saying they lack such authority under the law.
CBI News reports that Obasanjo made the remarks during an interview on News Central, where he addressed what he described as a misinterpretation of constitutional provisions by lawmakers.
The former Nigerian president maintained that elected legislators are not empowered by the Constitution to fix their own remuneration.
“The elected members of the National Assembly have no right to fix their own salary, no, they don't have that right, and it's not in our constitution for them to do that,” he said.
Obasanjo warned that allowing lawmakers to determine their own pay could encourage abuse of office, especially at a time many Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship.
He noted that such actions could erode public trust in government and raise questions about accountability.
The former leader stressed that adherence to constitutional limits is essential for transparency and fairness in governance.
He added that the issue goes beyond salaries, cautioning that disregard for the law could create a system where public officials prioritise personal gain over public service.
Obasanjo emphasised that respect for the Constitution remains critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic system and preventing future governance challenges.
